Heather runs a online store that sells gifts for men only.

Research showed Heather that no one was catering exclusively to men online, and she filled that gap with Gifts 4 Blokes!

Heather, what was the idea that first got the ball rolling?

Well, I can’t really say that it was all my own idea! Just before Christmas a few years ago, I got together “with the girls” and over a few drinkies we discussed the hassles of finding men’s gifts and why couldn’t you just buy them in one spot, not have to wander the shops until your feet and head can’t take it anymore. Then they “suggested” why don’t I put together an online store with gifts for men. They thought it would be easy for me as I had trained and worked as a web designer. I think they just thought I could press a button and there would be the solution to their problem of finding men’s gifts.

What got you excited enough about the idea to put it into motion?

They harassed me long enough until I did something!
No, seriously, initially I put the idea to one side, then it began to “niggle” at me, until I started researching the market and realised at that time there wasn’t really an online store doing just men’s gifts. I’d always wanted to go into business for myself someday and I began to think this was an opportunity to use my skills and do something a bit different. And it was a challenge to start something from nothing, and the more work and planning I did, the more excited I got.

Where did the name for your business spring from?

Working in the web industry I knew I had to find a name that would be catchy, search engine friendly and told shoppers what the store was just by them looking at the name. The name popped into my head and I could not believe the domains were available. Next thing I had the credit card out, you have never seen someone register a domain name so quickly.

How is Gifts for Blokes original?

It caters for men’s gifts only, although I have had emails from women saying they had purchased items for themselves… When researching stock we try to think outside the square and try not to have the same old – same old. My husband is a great sounding board and quickly tells me if the idea is a shocker! We focus on the customer and make customer service a priority. Most orders are dispatched within 24hours.

What was the most difficult part in getting your business off the ground?

Negativity by suppliers towards online businesses. Firstly we were new and then we were online. Some suppliers had a policy not to sell to online stores. Their other main comment was we might sell on ebay. It took us some time to find the right suppliers who took the time to listen to our concept and come on board with us. We have noticed this attitude is slowly changing as more wholesalers grasp the concept of online shopping and that online stores are really no different from other businesses.

Has any part of your business gone down a different path than you first anticipated?

Yes, mainly in the products that we are selling – we have found items that in the beginning we would never have thought of, plus we have some more ideas in the wind, that are currently “top secret”!

 What do you enjoy most about running your business?

Helping people, we often get a desperate email from someone who has a birthday or a groom in “urgent” need of groomsman’s gifts (the wedding is on Saturday!). Really enjoy being able to help them out of a tight spot. Plus you tend to get to know your repeat customers, which is really nice.

Do you belong to any networks that have helped you grow your business?

Yes, several women’s forums that are a great help and provide me with inspiration and a laugh!

What are your future goals for Gifts for Blokes?

We have several things on the drawing board at the moment, that are exciting. Yep they’re secret! sorry

What advice would you give another woman wanting to start a business of her own?

Plan, Plan, Plan – also if you have a partner, their support, encouragement and constructive criticism is really important. But if you have an idea and the drive – just go for it, you never know unless you have a go!